THE rivalry between Witton Albion and Winsford United has split sisters Katie and Sophie Fletcher-Curran.

But there's a special reason why they are donning different colours.

It is the possibility of a year's modelling contract with a top agency, which is the first prize in a new beauty contest.

No sooner had Katie, 16, registered her name for Miss Witton FC than lifelong blues fan 16-year-old Sophie decided to enter the running for the title of Miss Winsford FC.

At stake in both contests is the opportunity to go forward to the finals of a competition organised by the Winsford-based sports promotions agency, Sponsor-Link, and win a year's contract with Impact Models.

Runcorn Linnetts football team make it a three-cornered contest and the lucky overall winner will also become the promotional face of 'Miss Football Bingo', a syndicated match-day game aimed at raising funds for the three non-league football clubs.

The Miss Winsford FC preliminaries are held at the Wetherspoons' Queens Arms pub on Friday, November 24, from 7.30pm. On the night, the initial entrants will be whittled down for the club final, which will be held at the Barton Stadium the following Thursday.

The Witton Albion preliminaries will be held at The Anderton pub, Witton Street, at 7.30pm on November 24. Witton's club finals and the overall final involving Winsford and Runcorn qualifiers will be at Albion's social club on December 15.

Organiser Tony Williamson said: 'It is open to all girls aged 16 to 24 and they do not have to follow any of the three clubs, though it would be nice if they did know something about them.

'Obviously, as a modelling contract is on offer they must be attractive, but personality will be a major aspect in the judging.'

Other prizes include make-up girl packs, a professional photography portfolio and hair styling vouchers.

* Entry forms are can be obtained from Sponsor-Link on 01606 869996 or from www.wittonalbionfc.com and www.winsfordunitedfc.com